HospitalInspections.org

Based on observation, staff interviews, and review of facility documents, it was determined that the facility failed to ensure all visitors are provided a screening to identify and isolate Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in accordance with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines.

Findings include:

Reference #1: CDC Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel [HCP] During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic Infection Control Guidance (updated July 15, 2020) states, " ...Recommended routine infection prevention and control (IPC) practices during the COVID-19 Pandemic ...Screen and Triage Everyone Entering a Healthcare Facility for Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19 ...Screen everyone (patients, HCP, visitors) entering the healthcare facility for symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or exposure to others with SARS-CoV-2 infection and ensure they are practicing source control. Actively take their temperature and document absence of symptoms consistent with COVID-19. ..."

Reference #2: Facility document, COVID Procedures - Main Info Desk, states, "... Screening Questions (Ask ALL Visitors/Patients ... Are you experiencing COVID-19 Symptoms? (past 14 days) Fever, Headache, Diarrhea/Nausea, Loss of Taste/smell, Cough, Body Aches, Sore Throat, Shortness of breath ... Have you ever been diagnosed with COVID-19? ... Have you been in contact w/anyone that tested COVID-19 positive? ... Have you traveled outside of NJ in the last 14 days? ... If yes, they are NOT permitted to enter ..."

1. On 11/27/20 at approximately 9:30 AM, the following was noted:

a. A visitor entered the hospital, through the main entrance, and approached the front desk. The visitor was directed by Staff #17, an Information Desk Clerk, to have his/her temperature screened with a thermal scanner.

i. After the temperature screening, the visitor was allowed to enter the facility.

ii. The visitor was not screened for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, travel history outside of the state, or any recent contact or exposure with anyone that was COVID positive, prior to entering the facility.

b. This surveyor entered the hospital, through the main entrance, and was approached at the front desk by Staff #16, a Security Guard. This surveyor had a temperature screening performed by Staff #16.

i. After the temperature screening, this surveyor was allowed to enter the facility.

ii. This surveyor was not screened for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, travel history outside of the state, or any recent contact or exposure with anyone that was COVID positive, prior to entering the facility.

2. The above findings were confirmed with Staff #2, Staff #3, Staff #9 and Staff #31.